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Family Sports & Fitness

Ring in the New Year with KettlebellsA workout with a kettlebell -- a cast iron ball with a handle – is a hot new trend in burning calories, and it’s good for almost every age.Target almost every aspect of fitness – cardio endurance, strength, balance, agility and overall endurance – with just one challenging, efficient piece of equipment.

What is a kettlebell?• A cast iron ball with a handle• Weights range from 2 – 50 pounds

How is it different from barbell training?Kettlebell workouts use center-of-gravity shifts during the course of the exerciseYour core stabilizer muscles have to work harderThe unique shape allows you to transition from one exercise to the next without putting it down or pausingThe movement should be slow and controlled but fluidSwinging the kettlebell works muscles in a way that weight machines and barbells can’tSwings reinforce and create power through the core and hips

How effective is the workout?A vigorous workout with a kettlebell can burn nearly 300 calories in just 20 minutes

Factor in the calories burned after you exercise as your body repairs its muscle fibers and you’re up to 600 calories for a 20 minute workout!

How do I get started?Start by learning the moves without a kettlebell, and then add the weightForm is critical to prevent injury, so it’s a good idea to get a trainer to show you how to properly use themWatch a video online or go to a gym for instruction